In a season of grit, discipline, and unyielding determination, Nuhu Batte emerged as the Welterweight 67kgs Champion of the 2024 Uganda Boxing Champions League (UBCL) Season 3.
Batte’s remarkable journey, punctuated by his five-game undefeated run, has made him a standout figure in Uganda boxing circles.
From Juniors to Elite: A Journey of Growth
Batte’s rise to the Elite level of the UBCL is a testament to his dedication to the sport. Having debuted in Season 1 as a Junior and progressed through the Youth category in Season 2, he cemented his place in the Elite division by clinching the 2024 National Open Championship.
His unbeaten streak in Season 3, including a hard-fought 4-3 split victory against Bombers Captain Ukasha Matovu on Boxing Day final at UMA showgrounds, is a testament to his skill and resilience.
In a sit-down chat after his Real Star award-winning moment, Batte managed to reflect on his debut Elite season;
On the intense Season 3 competition
“This season hasn’t been boring with immense competition and no time to rest. If you dared to sleep, others would have already gone out to train.”
His determination to stay ahead of the competition is evident in his approach to training and preparation.
On Facing Tough Opponents
Acknowledging the challenges he faced, Batte highlighted the calibre of his opponents;
“I have faced many opponents, including the Bombers Captain and others who have previously been on the National team, but I am not going to stop there.”
On Motivation and Future Goals
Winning the prestigious Real Star Award has added to Batte’s accolades, but he remains grounded about his future:
“I am going to prepare my days ahead by keeping my body so hard, though looking forward to the National team hasn’t yet got into my focus.”
Responding to Rivals
As a champion, Batte is aware of the target on his back:
“At this point, very many opponents are looking up to me and want to fight me because I am a champion, but I can promise them that they won’t manage.”
Thoughts on Changing Weight
For now, Batte sees no need to switch weight categories:
“Currently, I haven’t thought of changing weight because it hasn’t yet given any problems at all.”
Advice for Young Boxers
Batte is passionate about nurturing upcoming talent, particularly at his home club, COBAP:
“I want to start with those at COBAP. We are family there, and I advise those young ones to keep disciplined and focused.”
To young boxers across the country, he emphasizes:
“This is a sport, not a fight. You must have discipline and avoid distractions, including bad influences in society.”
As Batte reflects on his journey, his message is clear: discipline, focus, and resilience are the keys to success in the ring. With his eyes set on maintaining his unbeaten record, the boxing world eagerly watches what lies ahead for this rising star.
